1. Record the Original Before Scanning
Give each photo a unique number, and record its size, any text on the front and back, its position on the album page, and any damage. Inscriptions, stamps, and photo studio information on the back of the photo should also be scanned.
2. Keep Original Images and Working Images
For archival originals, lossless TIFF or high-quality PNG is recommended. Save separate copies for restoration and sharing. Use at least 600 dpi for standard photos; increase the resolution for small ID photos or group photos that need to be enlarged.
3. Use Consistent File Names
You can use the structure “family ID-approximate era-location-event-sequence number,” for example J001-1968-Chengdu-FamilyGroupPhoto-01. Do not guess an exact date when the era cannot be confirmed; write “around the 1960s” instead.
4. Add Person Descriptions
Record people from left to right, and keep their names as well as the forms of address and relationships used at the time. Note who provided the description and when it was recorded; if different family members disagree, preserve all versions.
5. Store Originals and Digital Files Separately
Use acid-free materials for printed photos, and keep them away from light and moisture. Keep at least two copies of digital files, stored on different devices or in different locations. Set access permissions for cloud copies.
6. Restoration Is Not Rewriting
Removing scratches, correcting fading, and moderately enhancing clarity can be used to create a restored version, but the original image must be preserved. Images with AI-generated face completion, changed clothing, or reconstructed backgrounds should be clearly marked as generated or inferred content.